Studying abroad is becoming increasingly popular among college students and young adults. As a young adult, it’s very likely that you will come across an opportunity to travel abroad, whether through school programs or just for fun. We all have this innate need for adventure, and the best time to satisfy that is in our youth. As a college student myself, I have already participated in study abroad programs including trips to France and Australia! Even though I was younger when these programs took place, I can tell you that they are still the most memorable trips I have taken in my life thus far. People will tell you that traveling will be the best experience of your life, and they’re right. If you get the opportunity, then do it. You will learn more about yourself, the world around you, and the people in it.

Get out of your comfort zone.

When you’re out in the world on your own, you’re exposed to things you never even thought possible. Your limits will be tested, and you will be doing things that are completely new to you, while being in a different country. Embrace it. Face the challenges head on and do something new.

Develop cultural sensitivity.

When you study abroad, you’ll get to learn how people of different cultures live. There are different perspectives and beliefs, and you will find that there is so much more to a culture than just food and language. You’ll even learn more about the people themselves, and maybe even see that they aren’t that different from you.

Gain experience.

For many young adults, college may be the only time they get to be abroad for an extended period of time. Take the opportunity to gain experience while having no commitments in a completely different culture. You’ll learn how to speak with people, how to work in different settings and how to make the most of any situation.

Make memories.

This will be one of the greatest experiences of your life. You will meet people through your program and through your travels, and you might even end up keeping in touch with them! You will have great stories to tell and pictures to share with family and friends from back home.

Learn a language.

If you are planning on studying abroad, chances are you might need to learn a new language. The best way to learn is to dive right in. If you already know a language, brush up on your skills, or use this time to study a new one.

Have a sense of adventure.

It’s something totally different and an unforgettable experience. You will never do anything like this again in your life. When you are thousands of miles away from your home, spontaneity is your best friend. Go explore, and don’t hold back.

Find yourself.

When you’re abroad, you have no boundaries. It’s a time to explore and find who you really are as a person. Your beliefs, views and values might change, your way of thinking might change but most of all, you will become much more aware as a tiny person in a big world; figure out where you stand in it.